Runners Turn to Sports Massage Therapy

Runners Turn to Sports Massage Therapy

Athletes of every kind and every level have discovered the benefits of sports massage therapy. The specific type of sports massage is typically geared towards the athlete’s sport of choice. Avid runners seem to be at the forefront of these athletes—turning to sports massage in order to focus on areas of the body that are stressed and overused from the repetitive and often aggressive movements associated with running. Used as a component in a balanced training regimen, sports massage therapy has gained significant popularity with these runners.

Besides reducing recovery time after big events, regular massage therapy can enhance performance during training. In addition, sports massage therapy has shown to promote flexibility, improve endurance, reduce fatigue, and help prevent injuries. The study in the journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that massage therapy showed an improved hip-flexor range-in-motion in athletes, as well as a notable trend toward decreased muscle soreness in runners who received sports massage before or after exercise.

The Clinical Massage Therapy Diploma Program at The Soma Institute in Chicago, Illinois has trained thousands of students in the many modalities of massage therapy including sports massage. The hands-on training at Soma prepares students for a rewarding career in this growing profession. With exciting internship programs, students can work in the on-campus clinic under the guidance of faculty supervisors. In addition, students have the unique opportunity to perform sports massage on NCAA Division 1 athletes at Loyola University.

If you’ve thought about a career in sports massage therapy and being a part of the healing arts profession, give The Soma Institute a call today to find out more. Soma’s fast-paced athletic training environment gives students the invaluable field experience needed to build skills and confidence! Give Soma a call today at 1.800.694.5314 to find out more.